Mackinac Island featuring the Tulip Time Festival
Mackinac Island featuring the Tulip Time Festival
Sightseeing cruise at Chicago river
Lake houses on Mackinac Island
$3749
Mackinac Island featuring the Tulip Time Festival
9 Days Starting in Chicago, United States and ending in Southfield, United States
Visiting: Chicago, Holland, Michigan, Mackinac Island, Frankenmuth, Dearborn, Southfield
Tour operator:
Tour code:
16717
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 44
Age range:
5-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of America with the Mackinac Island tour featuring the Tulip Time Festival. Begin in the vibrant city of Chicago, exploring its iconic landmarks and indulging in a welcome dinner at the renowned Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Holland, Michigan, during the Tulip Time Festival, and marvel at the vibrant floral displays. Travel to the enchanting Mackinac Island, where horse-drawn carriages replace cars, and stay at the historic Grand Hotel, a Victorian-era gem. Discover the island's serene landscapes and indulge in exquisite dining experiences. Visit the charming town of Frankenmuth, home to the world’s largest Christmas store, and delve into history at the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village in Dearborn. Conclude your adventure with a farewell dinner, cherishing the memories of this unique cultural and historical exploration.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Chicago, Illinois
Location: Chicago
Accommodation Name: Hyatt Regency
Get ready for a relaxing journey through the tranquil beauty of Mackinac Island and the Great Lakes region. This stunning landscape comes alive amid old-fashioned traditions. No activities are included today as flight arrival times will be scattered through the afternoon and evening.
Day 2 : Chicago
Location: Chicago
Meals Included: Dinner
Begin your day with a locally guided tour of Chicago’s remarkable and impressive architecture. This dynamic city goes by many names including "Second City" and “The Windy City," but no matter what you call it, you’re sure to fall in love. Highlights of your tour include famous Michigan Avenue, the “Magnificent Mile,” the Wrigley Building, the Loop, the Lakefront, and a walking tour through Millennium Park. The remainder of your day is at leisure. You may want to visit one of Chicago’s many museums, relax during a scenic boat ride across the Chicago River, or visit the Chicago Cultural Center. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.
Day 3 : Chicago - Holland, Michigan - Grand Rapids
Location: Holland, Michigan
Accommodation Name: Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown
Meals Included: Lunch
This morning, you will depart Chicago and make your way to Holland, Michigan, to celebrate the Tulip Time Festival. After an included lunch, a local guide* will show off the town’s beautiful floral displays while also giving you the history of this celebration dating back to 1929. Your tour will end with time to explore the Windmill Island Gardens and discover a palette of color that spreads across 36 acres of manicured gardens, dikes, and canals. You can also see the only authentic Dutch windmill operating in the United States. Later, arrive in the nearby city of Grand Rapids for an evening at your leisure.
Day 4 : Grand Rapids - Mackinac Island
Location: Mackinac Island
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
This morning, enjoy a scenic drive before arriving in Mackinaw City at the tip of Michigan’s lower peninsula. You will have some time to explore this coastal vacation town and grab lunch before boarding the ferry that will take you back to a simpler time on Mackinac Island. Upon arrival, listen for how the neighs of horses replace the roar of engines. Your home for the next two nights is the glorious Victorian-era resort, the Grand Hotel.** Both your hotel and the island itself are National Historic Landmarks. The island is a natural gem with over eighty percent of its land preserved by Mackinac State Park, a woodland paradise accented with limestone formations and ringed by Lake Huron. After dinner*** at your hotel, the evening is yours to enjoy. Perhaps you’ll take a leisurely stroll through the quaint village or relax on the Grand Hotel’s famous porch.
Day 5 : Mackinac Island
Location: Mackinac Island
Meals Included: Dinner
Climb aboard your horse-drawn carriage for an island tour that includes stops at the Surrey Hills Carriage Museum and Arch Rock. Following your tour, savor some time to enjoy all of Mackinac Island’s quiet pleasures. Enjoy brilliant views while sitting on the front porch of the Grand Hotel or take a walk downtown to visit the shops and buy some fudge, a favorite item on the island. Later, choose from a menu of tasty delicacies when you dine at the elegant Salle à Manger. After dinner, enjoy a cup of coffee while listening to the refined sounds of the Grand Hotel's orchestra. If you crave a secluded hideaway, retreat to the charming Cupola Bar.
Day 6 : Mackinac Island - Bay City
Location: Mackinac Island
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree Bay City Riverfront
Enjoy some leisure time at the Grand Hotel and in town before departing this afternoon for your riverfront accommodations in Bay City. This evening is at leisure. Perhaps you will take to the river walk where you can explore the downtown on your own.
Day 7 : Bay City - Frankenmuth - Southfield
Location: Frankenmuth
Accommodation Name: Westin Hotel Southfield Detroit
Today, explore the architectural artistry of Alden B. Dow’s home & studio during a guided tour. This legendary 20th century architect designed his home to be the peak of Mid-Twentieth Century Modern Architecture, and since its construction has been declared a National Historic Landmark. This afternoon, we visit the quaint town of Frankenmuth, or as the locals call it, "Little Bavaria," because of its Franconian-style architecture. Upon arrival, visit the largest Christmas store in the world – Bronner’s.
Day 8 : Southfield - Dearborn - Southfield
Location: Dearborn
Meals Included: Dinner
Today we visit Dearborn, hometown of Henry Ford and the Ford Motor Company. Visit the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village for an experience in living history. Learn how the automobile forever changed American life and society as you explore the Henry Ford Museum. At Greenfield Village, take in the historic homes and see the workshops where famous American icons like the Wright Brothers, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and Robert Frost were once inspired. Enjoy a farewell dinner this evening, toasting the end of your wonderful journey.
Day 9 : Southfield - Tour Ends
Location: Southfield
Your tour ends today, leaving you with a bounty of happy memories from your visit to America’s heartland.
What's Included
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Guided Tour of Chicago
Enjoy a guided tour of Chicago's unique and remarkable landmarks, including Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile.
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Tulip Time Festival
View extraordinary flowers in bloom at Holland’s Tulip Time Festival and explore Windmill Island Gardens.
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Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour
Climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage for a tour of Mackinac Island, a National Historic Landmark.
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Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village
Visit the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village in Dearborn for an immersive experience in living history.
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Visit to Frankenmuth
Visit quaint Frankenmuth, home to the world's largest Christmas store.
What's Not Included
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Flight Arrivals
No activities are included on the first day as flight arrival times will be scattered through the afternoon and evening.
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Leisure Time
Several evenings and afternoons are at leisure, allowing you to explore on your own.
Experiences
- Immerse yourself in generations of innovation during a visit to the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village.
- Climb aboard your horse-drawn carriage, Mackinac Island’s local transportation, for a tour of the island.
- Visit quaint Frankenmuth, home to the world's largest Christmas store.
Culinaries
- Dine at Chicago’s famous Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse where “sophistication, sports, and history blend to create a distinctive dining experience.”
- Dine at the Grand Hotel where "every meal is an event."
Must See
- Spend two nights at the glorious Victorian-era resort, the Grand Hotel.
- Enjoy a guided tour of Chicago's unique and remarkable landmarks.
- View extraordinary flowers in bloom at Holland’s Tulip Time Festival.
Choice Highlights
Mackinac Island Located in Lake Huron, this island resort area was once the home to a Native American settlement before European settlement began in the 17th century. The entire island is listed as a National Historic Landmark and 80% of the land is preserved as a state park. For the most part, motor vehicles have been prohibited on the island since 1898 adding to the resort's appeal.
Grand Hotel Stay for two nights in one of North America's most impressive hotels - the legendary Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Built during America's Gilded Age, the Grand Hotel is an elegantly designed Victorian lodge made from Michigan white pine. The grand opening of the Grand Hotel took place on July 10, 1887 - with room rates starting at $3.00 a night. Guests arrive and depart the hotel by horse-drawn carriage – a romantic and whimsical nod to a simpler era. As you approach the majestic manor, the first thing you'll notice is the hotel's seemingly endless front porch. At 600 feet in length, it is the longest porch in the world. Five U.S. Presidents - Bill Clinton, George H. W. Bush, Gerald Ford, John Kennedy and Harry Truman - have all stayed at the Grand Hotel. The 1979 motion picture, Somewhere in Time, in which Christopher Reeve’s and Jane Seymour’s characters found love across time, was filmed here. Every October, fans of the film gather at the hotel for a weekend. Esther Williams’ 1949 film, This Time for Keeps, was also shot at the hotel. The heated 220 foot, serpentine shaped, 500,000 gallon swimming pool is named in her honor. Your stay at this historic landmark is sure to be the highlight of your trip!
Chicago's Millennium Park
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village Experience living history - Greenfield Village! Take in the historic homes and see the workshops where famous American icons like the Wright Brothers, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and Robert Frost were once inspired. This historic park is made up of 7 distinct districts. See 19th-century farm life, stroll a typical Main Street or visit the artisans in the craft works area. At the Ford Museum, learn about how the automobile forever changed American life and society as well as other significant events in America's past.
Mode of Transport
Travel includes a scenic drive to Mackinaw City, a ferry ride to Mackinac Island, and a horse-drawn carriage tour on the island, offering a unique and nostalgic transportation experience.Accommodation
Experience the charm of the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, the Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown, the DoubleTree Bay City Riverfront, the Hyatt Regency in Chicago, and the Westin Hotel Southfield Detroit.Check out our Q&As
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What unique transportation experience is available on Mackinac Island?
On Mackinac Island, you can enjoy a horse-drawn carriage tour, which is the local mode of transportation since motor vehicles are mostly prohibited on the island.
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What can I expect to see at the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan?
At the Tulip Time Festival, you will see extraordinary floral displays, including a palette of colors across 36 acres of manicured gardens, dikes, and canals. You can also explore Windmill Island Gardens and see the only authentic Dutch windmill operating in the United States.
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What historical experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village, where you can experience living history and learn about the impact of the automobile on American life. You will also visit the architectural artistry of Alden B. Dow’s home and studio, a National Historic Landmark.
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What dining experiences are included at the Grand Hotel?
At the Grand Hotel, you will dine at the elegant Salle à Manger, where every meal is an event. After dinner, you can enjoy coffee while listening to the Grand Hotel's orchestra or visit the charming Cupola Bar.
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What leisure activities are available on Mackinac Island?
On Mackinac Island, you can enjoy the quiet pleasures of the island, such as sitting on the front porch of the Grand Hotel with brilliant views, taking a walk downtown to visit shops, or buying some of the island's famous fudge.
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What is special about the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island?
The Grand Hotel is a Victorian-era resort known for its historic charm and the world's longest porch. It is a National Historic Landmark and has hosted several U.S. Presidents. The hotel offers a unique experience with horse-drawn carriage arrivals and departures.
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Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?
Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.
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Can my children travel on tour?
Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.
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What is the difference between a twin room and double room?
In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.
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Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?
Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.
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Do I need a passport?
Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.
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Is there a lot of walking on tour?
We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
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Low Deposit
Collette requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of collette charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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